Answer both parts of this question:
• Describe one way solving for a missing leg in a right triangle is SIMILAR to solving for a missing hypotenuse.
• Describe one way solving for a missing leg in a right triangle is DIFFERENT than solving for a missing hypotenuse.
One way solving for a missing leg in a right triangle is similar to solving for a missing hypotenuse is that both situations involve using the Pythagorean theorem. The Pythagorean theorem states that in a right triangle, the square of the length of the hypotenuse is equal to the sum of the squares of the lengths of the other two sides. So, whether solving for a missing leg or a missing hypotenuse, the theorem can be used to find the unknown side length.
One way solving for a missing leg in a right triangle is different than solving for a missing hypotenuse is the method of calculation. When solving for a missing leg, you would typically have to subtract or take the square root to find the length. However, when solving for a missing hypotenuse, you would usually have to add or square root since the hypotenuse length is the sum or square root of the sum of the squares of the other two sides. Additionally, the context of the problem may also be different when finding a missing leg compared to finding a missing hypotenuse.